The four-day ‘South Asia Trade Fair 2025’ began in Dhaka on Thursday, bringing together top brands and entrepreneurs from SAARC countries under one roof with an aim to strengthen regional trade and economic cooperation.
The fair, taking place at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), features a wide range of products including fashion and lifestyle items, electronics, cosmetics, jewelry, processed foods, technology products, home appliances and kitchenware.
Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman inaugurated the event.
The SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) organised the trade fair with support from the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).
Terming the fair an important platform for exchanging ideas, knowledge, technology, and experiences among South Asian countries, the Commerce Secretary expressed optimism that the initiative would help reinforce regional trade and economic ties.
“Across the world, major economic blocs have been formed by removing barriers and expanding trade among themselves. Unfortunately, we in South Asia are yet to fully embrace that practice. It is time for us to work collectively to build a stronger regional economic alliance,” Mahbub said.
Dhaka to host 4-day South Asia Trade Fair from Sept 18
EPB Vice Chairman Hasan Arif suggested organizing such trade fairs not only through bilateral initiatives but also in major global cities like Dubai.
He also highlighted EPB’s plans to arrange fairs featuring local entrepreneurs and their products to enhance branding efforts.
SCCI President Md Jashim Uddin emphasised the need for greater institutional efforts to tackle emerging global trade challenges, and urged SAARC business leaders to harness South Asia’s diverse resources, raw materials, and manpower to unlock the region’s economic potential.
Bhavesh R Trivedi, Director of Economy, Trade and Finance at the SAARC Secretariat, said South Asia’s significant contribution to the wider Asian economy. He emphasized that stronger networking and connectivity within the region could unleash vast trade opportunities.
Business leaders from various chambers and associations, diplomats, and representatives from SCCI and FBCCI, among others, attended the inauguration ceremony.